European Graphic Novels++

Besides Akira I've only read Berserk in full. (Up to it's latest chapter, at least) I re-read some of it fairly recently and got up to date with the issues published after Miura's passing, so I'll share some thoughts about it.

While It's another incredible and influential piece of art (which I really enjoy) I'll not sugar coat it, it edges on problematic a few times.

Mainly because the story's core plot revolves in part arround the aftermath of a betrayal and the damage caused by sexual assault, (which is something thst happens a few times and is depicted in *very" grotesque detail). But also because Miura made some (at least to me) unfortunate choices in regards some of the antagonistic groups races and how irl religion (like hinduism) influenced the world. Some of that is being corrected in more recent chapters, but, point still stands.

It's best to approach it with a mature pov, also taking into account it was conceived during a hiper violent period in japanese media... Violence is plentiful, and a spectacle in berserk. this story is not for the faint of heart.

That aside, the character work in the writing is very good, is very easy to get invested in the characters, even minor ones. Personalities shine, the reader gets to really know these people, and feel for them, the good and the evil, individually and as a group.

Plot is solid, even though there are points in which the story lingers too much in uninteresting stuff. (It's been going for so long, there were times people wondered if Miura was not that into it anymore) but it always managed to get back on track.

And the ART! Definitely the best part of the manga. Exquisitely detailed architecture, rich landscapes, astounding creature design , and very iconic and memorable character design. (It does start a tad clunky in the anatomy department, but gets it's footing arround vol. 5), action is epic... vivid and dynamic. In short, if there's a reason to read Berserk, it's the art. ( I know there's at least one good anime adaptation of the iconic arc in the manga, but I've never bothered with it, I just can't see how it could make justice to what's on the page).

All in all, berserk is a visceral experience, and as a fan of dark fantasy, it's definitely a cornerstone of the genre, and it has been cool to dive into some of the newer stuff it has influenced, like videogames, music, other manga/ anime)

After the continuation was announced I had my doubts and couldn't bring myself to pick it back up until a few months ago. But the work Mori and studio gaga have put in to complete Mr Miura's story and legacy is commendable, and I have no doubt we'll see a satisfying conclusion, in the "near" future whatever it may be.